minimally invasive gynecological surgery(MIGS)

overview

Minimally invasive gynecological surgery (MIGS) can treat a variety of health concerns – including hysterectomy, uterine bleeding, incontinence, pelvic prolapse, ovarian cysts, endometriosis and fibroids – with fewer incisions than with traditional surgery. MIGS typically lets you return to daily activities in less time and with less discomfort, too.

services & treatment

Minimally invasive gynecological surgery techniques include:

Laparoscopic: A surgeon makes a few, very small abdominal incisions, then inserts a thin video camera and surgical instruments. The surgeon performs the procedure while viewing the surgical site on a video monitor. Single-incision laparoscopy uses a single incision hidden in the belly button, which means there's less pain and no visible scarring.

Robotic-assisted: This technique combines laparoscopic techniques with the dexterity and precision of robotic arms. The robotic arms translate the surgeon’s moves into smaller movements, allowing for delicate work in small spaces. Robotic assisted single incision is a minimally invasive hysterectomy performed through a small incision in your belly button. These procedures allow for virtually scar-free results.

Vaginal surgery: This method uses small incisions in the vagina to perform similar procedures. For example, in a vaginal hysterectomy, the uterus is removed through these incisions.

questions & answers

Which conditions can be treated with minimally invasive surgery techniques?

Why is minimally invasive surgery safer and what are the benefits?Most traditional surgeries require a long incision that has to be made through muscle, leaving large scars and requiring significant recovery time. Minimally invasive surgery means smaller incisions, which means the surgeon can avoid cutting through muscle. This allows for less tissue damage, a shorter hospital stay and recovery time, and smaller, less noticeable scars. It’s also a more accurate procedure, since minimally invasive surgery uses video-assisted equipment.

Are there any risk factors with minimally invasive surgery?
As with any surgery, infection, bleeding and anesthesia-related problems are possible complications. However, because of the smaller incisions needed, your risk of infection and excessive blood loss is lower than with traditional open surgery. Talk with your doctor about possible complications specific to your surgery.

What are the success rates of minimally invasive surgery compared to traditional surgery?Surgical success rates with minimally invasive surgery are comparable to traditional surgeries.

Can anyone be a candidate for minimally invasive surgery?There are many factors that determine if you’re eligible for a minimally invasive procedure. They include the part of your pelvic region that’s being treated with surgery, the medical parameters of a specific case and your size – some larger women may not be candidates for minimally invasive surgery.

What should I look for when selecting a surgeon for minimally invasive surgery?Experience is the key. Studies show that the more minimally invasive procedures a surgeon performs, the higher the chance of better outcomes. Ask your surgeon how many times he or she has performed your specific procedure.

Is the cost of minimally invasive surgery covered by insurance?Minimally invasive surgery is covered by most insurance plans. Please contact your insurance company with specific questions regarding your medical plan.

Where can I learn more about minimally invasive procedures?Learn more about MIGS.

get back to your life sooner

The Benefits of MIGS

Betsy Winga, MD, shares the advantages of minimally invasive surgery.

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